Thanjavur is one of the ancient cities of India in the Southern State of Tamil Nadu. The prosperous agrarian city was ruled by various dynasties like Cholas (850-1279 AD), Pandyas (1279-1311 AD), Vijayanagaras (1535 AD), Madurai Nayaks, Thanjavur Nayaks, Marathas (1674 AD) and later the British Colonists (1799 AD). Historically, an important centre of art, architecture, culture and spirituality, most of the UNESCO World Heritage Monuments – great Living Chola temples – are located in and around Thanjavur.
Thanjavur rose to prominence as a Chola capital in 850 AD and the finest specimen of Temple architecture, Brihadeeswarar temple stands majestic, built in the first decade of the eleventh century. The Famous Saraswati Mahal Library, housing over 30000 Indian and European manuscripts, the Palace and prominent temples proximal to Thanjavur make it an ideal spot to explore Thiruvaiyaru, Srirangam, Kumbakonam – the region which is the confluence of the arts.
Home of the famous Thanjavur style of Bharatanatyam, India’s predominant classical dance form, Thanjavur also witnessed the codification of Carnatic Music and the evolution of the famous Cire Perdue or lost wax sculpture technique of Chola Bronzes. Thanjavur offers a rich legacy and the ultimate experience of the fine arts of India.